Children’s Adventure Center Celebrates 35th Anniversary

By Larissa Lytwyn

The Children’s Adventure Center’s (CAC) 35th anniversary celebration on June 10 was filled with fun, laughter, and even a little bit of magic.

Connecticut State Comptroller Nancy Wyman, the first woman elected to the position in state history, welcomed the audience of tots, their teachers, and families with warm words for the CAC.

“I have been best friends with [CAC Board Chairman] Mae [Schmidle] for years,” she said. “It’s been wonderful to see the center grow and I would like to congratulate them on their anniversary.”

First Selectman Herb Rosenthal also lauded the center for its growth and progress in its long history. “I remember when it was originally in the barn at Newtown United Methodist Church,” he said. “It’s been a true pleasure to see the growth since that time.”

The children at the day care center and preschool came dressed in their own handmade butterfly costumes, complete with colorful wings and antenna-tipped headbands.

Nora Lundgren, a junior at Newtown High School, attended in support of her mother, teacher Lenore Thornton. Nora spent her time painting small flowers, happy faces, and other items on children’s cheeks.

“I love doing things that are artistic,” she said. “It makes me happy. It also makes me happy to be here today! I love the kids!”

Terry Reisert came with her 3-year-old daughter, Gabrielle. “We’ve only been here for a few months, but already we love it,” Ms Reisert said. “I like the mixed age groups here, which is an aspect to the Children’s Adventure Center that I think is unique.” The mixed ages, she continued, allowed “older children to help the young ones.”

She added, “It really builds a sense of community. There is a real sense of family here!”

Gina Long, who came with 8-year-old son Michael and 5-year-old son Thomas, agreed that she enjoyed the mixed age groups.

“We just fell in love with the center,” she said. “The day care center is especially good for working parents.”

Director Rose Luizzi, who has served in the position for two and a half years, said she was excited about the 35th anniversary celebration.

“It’s wonderful to see it all come together,” she said. “Everyone played a role. Parents helped bring in food and our teachers are here and children both currently at the center and those who are alumni. Everyone is here.”

After Ms Wyman and Mr Rosenthal spoke, Ms Wyman, Ms Schmidle and Ms Luizzi distributed approximately 500 bright yellow Frisbees to the children.

The audience then enjoyed a magic show by Norwalk-based magician Joe Celano, whose routine included a rabbit-out-of-the-hat trick using a live bunny!

CAC Board Vice Chair Barbara Borst attended with her husband, Legislative Councilman Joe Borst.

After a 32-year career in education, Ms Borst has spent the last four years serving on the CAC board. “It’s been wonderful being involved,” she said. “I’ve always loved the children.”

The children, it seemed, had a ball. In addition to the magician and the Frisbees, they enjoyed pizza and other refreshments with each other.

Teacher Tracy Karolczuk was a former Children’s Adventure Center student. “It’s great seeing the children happy,” she said. “I have really enjoyed working here. It’s a very warm family atmosphere.”

For more information on the Children’s Adventure Center, call 426-3018.